Primary Training

     The T-37 is a twin-engine primary trainer used for teaching the fundamentals of jet aircraft operation and instrument, formation and night flying. Affectionately known as the "Tweety Bird" or "Tweet," it was the first USAF jet aircraft designed from conception as a trainer (as opposed to a modification such as the T-33). Its flying characteristics helped student pilots prepare to transition to the larger, faster T-38 "Talon" later in the pilot training program. Side-by-side seating in the T-37 makes it easier for the instructor to observe and communicate with the student.
     The XT-37 prototype made its initial flight on October 12, 1954, and the pre-production T-37A first flew on September 27, 1955. Following modifications, the T-37A entered operational USAF service in 1957. In 1959, the T-37B joined the USAF. Similar to the -A, it had more powerful engines, a redesigned instrument panel and improved radio communications and navigational equipment. In time, all -As were modified to -B standards.
    The T-37C, with provisions for armament and extra fuel, was built for export. Both T-37Bs and -Cs serve the air forces of several Allied nations. In all, nearly 1,300 T-37As, -Bs and -Cs were built before production ended in the late 1970s. In addition, nearly 600 A-37s--attack modifications of the T-37--were built.

Primary Function: Primary trainer in joint specialized undergraduate pilot training 
Contractor: Cessna Aircraft Co. 
Crew: Two - student pilot and instructor pilot 
Unit Cost: $164,854 
Powerplant - Two Continental J69-T-25 turbojet engines rated at 1,025 pounds (461.25 kilograms) each 
Dimensions 
     Length: 29 feet, 3 inches (8.9 meters) 
     Wingspan: 33 feet, 8 inches (10.2 meters) 
     Height: 9 feet, 2 inches (2.8 meters) 
Weights 
     Empty: 6,211 pounds (2,817 kilograms) -- OA-37B Dragonfly 
     Maximum Takeoff: 6,625 pounds (2,981 kilograms) 
Performance 
     Speed: 360 mph (Mach 0.4 at sea level) 
     Ceiling: 35,000 feet (10.6 kilometers) 
     Range: 460 miles